During my trip to the United Arab Emirates with my sister, we had the chance to explore its two most iconic cities – Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Though they share the same desert landscape and Gulf shoreline and are just 90-minute drive apart, each city offers a completely different atmosphere.

We chose Dubai as our base and stayed at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers for the first few nights. Conveniently located just a short walk from the nearest metro station, it was easy for us to get around the city using public transport. Our first few days were filled with discovering Dubai’s most famous sights.

We kicked things off with the iconic Burj Khalifa and were absolutely amazed by the panoramic views from the top of the world’s tallest building. We admired the vibrant displays of over 150 million blooming flowers during a stroll through Dubai Miracle Garden, the world’s largest natural flower garden and also headed to Palm Jumeirah, home to Atlantis, The Palm, which was the first resort built on this man-made island. Of course, we also explored some of Dubai’s world-famous malls, which offer much more than just shopping. Dubai Mall is known for its impressive aquarium inside, while Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates lets you experience snow and skiing right in the desert. Yet, instead of skiing, we opted for a desert safari, which was an equally thrilling, though admittedly touristy, experience. After getting picked up at the hotel, we spent the afternoon dune-bashing, riding camels, and ended the day with a magical sunset barbecue in the dunes.

One of the highlights of our trip was a day spent in Abu Dhabi, which included visits and stops at the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. We started at the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where we were amazed by the intricate details and the peaceful atmosphere of this architectural marvel. Next, we explored Heritage Village for a glimpse into traditional Emirati life before the oil boom, followed by a stop at Emirates Palace, one of the most opulent hotels in the world. We ended our day by wandering through the Abu Dhabi Dates Market, sampling an array of dried fruits, nuts, and sweets. Though it wasn’t part of our tour, in Abu Dhabi you can visit the Observation Deck at 300 in the Etihad Towers for sweeping views over the city, while arts lovers should definitely stop at Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Back in Dubai, we decided to finish our trip in style with a stay at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai. We booked the Covet Room, which featured a king-size bed, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower and bathtub, and a stunning view of the glittering Dubai skyline. The service was truly five-star too and the resort had everything we could ask for: a relaxing spa, multiple pool areas, a private beach with cozy cabanas, exclusive access to the vibrant Nikki Beach Club, and several excellent restaurants and cafés. Thus, especially mornings were a treat with their extensive breakfast buffet and à la carte dishes, all served poolside too.

Looking back, our trip to the UAE offered the perfect mix of adventure, cultural discovery, and luxurious relaxation. From towering skyscrapers and bustling souks to historic villages and desert dunes, this journey allowed us to experience both the country’s rich past and its bold, modern future.